Together for Life

    'Tis the season to be thankful.  While my family and I are huge fans of  giving thanks year-round, none can deny the pleasure that one month of extra, focused gratefulness can bring.  Something special happens when we gather together around a bounty of food and celebrate the goodness and faithfulness of the Lord.        As we reflect on this past year, I was deeply touched by Pastor's sermon this past Sunday, in which he pointed out that every breath we take, every ministry we partake in; everything is only by the grace of God.  Pastor also pointed out that God doesn't bless us just to bless us.  We do not deserve anything.  God does not owe us anything, particularly His love; it is freely given.  Every blessing God places in our path is so that we will be amazed at His goodness, that it might overflow of the abundance of our hearts to others.       So this year, I am especially thankful for the l...

    Now that the 2016 Presidential Election graces the history books, who's ready to hear about something besides politics?  I know I am!  Here's a family update for Y'all.     See that picture of Ransom at left?  Don't be fooled; it was one crazy week.  Joel and I were stunned and deeply saddened to hear about Joel's Grandma Rumminger's passing last Sunday.  Almost exactly two years from Grandpa, we know that they are now reunited with each other, but most importantly, with Jesus.  Our only regret is that Grandma did not get to meet Ransom this side of Heaven.      The service on Friday was beautiful.  I am not one who enjoys funerals  at all , but I did enjoy this one.  Pastor reminded everyone that, as Grandma Rumminger left an outstanding legacy worthy of following, she had her eyes on Jesus' example; and so should we.     Although several states separate that side of our family, we were d...

        Mixed emotions flood our home today, as it has been two years since the passing of Joel's grandpa into Glory.  Sad because we miss him.  Happy, because we know he is better and we will see him again one day.  It seemed appropriate to have Joel post a tribute in his memory.  Although I never got to meet him, I feel like I know him just a little bit; and I think I can safely say we would have gotten along great!    ***     It has been two years since Grandpa Rumminger left us for Heaven. I still miss him, and there are many things I wish we could talk about, even though I would probably go and do what I was planning anyway. Sometimes it is just good to talk to someone about what is on your mind, even though it does not really change the outcome.    I remember going on a hunting trip with Grandpa one weekend when I was in school. On the way to hunting camp we talked about something that was bothering me...